Madras Grocery Outlet hosts ‘adoption spree’ for Rockn EZ Rescue Ranch as contract for Jefferson County shelter nears end

(Update: adding video, comment from the executive director and Grocery Outlet)

MADRAS, Ore (KTVZ) -- After negotiations between Jefferson County and Rockn EZ Rescue Ranch to continue operating the county's animal Shelter failed, it now has just over a month to find forever homes for 85 dogs.

To make that happen, the shelter is holding a four-day adoption event at Grocery Outlet in Madras through Memorial Day weekend, hoping to find homes for dozens of dogs in need before the contract ends June 30.

They will be at the Madras Grocery Outlet Friday through Monday, 10 am to 5 pm.

They figure the holday weekend event is their best effort to find loving homes for these animals.

 "This community is overrun with stray animals, and we try to help as much as we can," said Cindy Fisher, executive director of the rescue ranch.

She also says it needs more money to operate the shelter. The county declined to increase their funding from $240,000 to $300,000. 

"We just can't take on that financial risk," Fisher said. "We're not going to leave debt with our our vets and our food vendors and things like that. We need to be financially responsible."

Asked who might replace them, county Commission Chair Wayne Fording said in a statement, "Jefferson County continues to review options for kennel operations when the agreement with Rockn EZ expires on June 30.  We anticipate information will be released June 5 or 6."

In the meantime, Fisher is determined to find homes for these animals.

"Our dogs are on Petfinder, so we've had a couple of adoption events in Redmond, Oregon, feedings, irrigation and at the Taphouse, the Vault," Fisher said.

Six vendors from the community volunteered to be part of this event. A portion of the proceeds go to Rockn EZ Rescue Ranch to support their efforts even after they’re gone from the shelter.

"We're going to have puppies and adult dogs and hopefully maybe even some kittens afterwards," Fisher said.

The adoption fee for puppies would be $400. For any dog 5 months to a year old, it would be $250, and any pup over a year is $150. The adoption fee includes vaccination, microchipping and getting the pups spayed and neutered.

Grocery Outlet General Manager Felix Durfee said, "I just really felt that there had to have been more that we could do, because it's not okay. You know, dogs need to be able to have a life, just like we do."

Durfee coordinated the event with vendors and planning has been in the works since March. This is their way of giving back to the community.

"Just knowing that we can be this big of a help and able to put this out, I cannot even give you the words -- it's empowering," Durfee said.

If you want to get involved but can’t adopt, Rockin EZ Rescue Ranch will be accepting donations throughout the month. They’re in need of food, supplies, and volunteers. 

From the press release:

When: May 24th-27th, 10am to 5pm each day

Where: Grocery Outlet Parking Lot

What: Adoption event all 4 days -come meet your new Fur-ever friend.

Charity Bike Run May 25th

Vendors with pet related services, fun wares, and food!

Rockn EZ Rescue’s contract for running the Jefferson County animal shelter ends June 30th.

Even if you aren’t looking for a new family member for yourself, there are a ton of ways you can help make sure we leave no furry friend behind. So come to the event to connect with all the great people who are a part of this rescue, pet some animals, and learn more.

1. SPREAD THE WORD. Share these events via social media, put up our event flyer in Madras and ALL surrounding communities, and of course word of mouth. Bring all of your friends. Make a day (or two) of it.

2. FOLLOW US: Did you know Rockn EZ has an active social media where you can find local events, adorable kitten and puppy videos, and information on adoptable pets? It is also where you’ll get info on the next fun events to attend. We always have something in the works.

3. VOLUNTEER: Rockn EZ’s Prevention First campaign focuses on pet ownership education to prevent animals from ending up in the shelter in the first place. We need volunteers at adoption events, fosters for animals while the rescue helps connect them to forever homes, fundraising organizers, transporters, etc.

4. DONATE to the low cost spay/neuters, vaccinations, and food for pets in need. We also need help to fund the pop-up spay and neuter clinic we’re bringing right here to Madras. Surgical supplies, medications, and funds are needed to assist this cause and help pay for all associated costs. Learn more about this awesome program at the event.

Reach out to the rescue with questions or for more information at Rocknezrescue@gmail.com